It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of Ronald "Ron" Maka, age 84, on Wednesday, Aug. 6, 2025, in Frisco, Texas.
A devoted husband, father, and faithful servant of God, he leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and unwavering faith. Ron was a man of deep Catholic faith whose devotion to God guided every aspect of his life. He found strength and comfort in his prayers. His faith was not just personal but was the foundation upon which he built his family and lived his daily life.
Above all, Ron cherished his family with a love that knew no bounds. He was the devoted husband of Ruth Ann for 15 years, and the loving father of: Cindy, Chris, Valerie, Brenda, and Ron. His grandchildren were the light of his eyes. Family gatherings were made brighter by his presence, his infectious laughter, and his gift for bringing joy to others.
Ron served his country with honor as an Air Force veteran, a service he carried with tremendous pride throughout his life. He delighted in sharing his military heritage with others, particularly through his beloved tradition of handing out challenge coins. These small tokens became Ron's way of connecting with fellow veterans and showing appreciation to those who served, bringing him immense joy and allowing him to honor the bond shared among those who served their country.
A true outdoorsman at heart, Ron found peace and renewal in God's creation. He spent countless hours fishing the local waters in all seasons, hunting in the woods, and observing the birds he loved so much. Many evenings found him sitting by a bonfire, sharing stories and laughter with family and friends under the stars. His passion for a "friendly game" of Hearts was legendary among family and friends, and his competitive spirit was matched only by his good humor whether he won or lost.
Ron is survived by his children: Cindy Maka (Belton Myers), Chris Maka (Tina Tang), and Valerie (Tony) Bacewicz; his stepchildren: Brenda (Mike) Mergener, Ron (Romona) Dancz, Jr.; his grandchildren: Derek Bacewicz (Rachel Cleveland), Madeleine Maka, Aaron (Genevieve) Bacewicz, Jennifer (David) Randall, Heather (Jeremy) Rios, Ronald (Cheryl) Dancz, III, Michael Mergener, II, Melissa Mergener, and Ryan (Christina) Dancz; great-grandchildren: Emma, Mark, Ivan, Matthew, and Brian; his sisters: Kitty (Kelly) VandenBrink, Gerry (Bill) Adams, Bonnie Maka, and Sara Maka; brother, Ray (Kathy) Maka; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph Frank Maka and Helen Agnes Lakowicz; his first wife, Donna Maka; his second wife, Ruth Ann Maka; his son, Randy Maka; and brother, Joe Maka.
Visitation will be held on Friday, Sept. 5, from 6-8 p.m., at Klaassen Family Funeral Home. The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 6, at St. Patrick Church of St. Patrick – St. Anthony Parish with Fr. Dan Schumaker officiating. Interment will be at Robinson Township Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that Memorial Contributions be made to Wellspring Adult Day Services at www.wellspringads.org. This group of amazing staff, volunteers and participants brought joy to his time in Michigan before he moved to Texas to be near his children, and his family are forever grateful for the comfort they provided him. "Well done, good and faithful servant" – Matthew 25:23.
Please visit www.klaassen funeralhome.com to sign Ron's online guestbook.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Funeral services provided by:
Klaassen Family Funeral Home - Grand Haven1500 Robbins Road, Grand Haven, MI 49417
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